Frequently Asked Questions for Jury Service

Q:
Who may serve as jurors and how are they chosen?

A:
Among other qualifications, jurors are citizens of the United States, residents of Clay County, and 21 years of age or older.
Names are selected at random from a master jury list that is compiled from several sources.

Q:
How long is the term of service?

A:
GRAND JURY - Grand Jury is for the Term of Court.
The Terms of Court are March, June, and November.

A:
PETIT - Petit Jurors complete their service either in one day or for the duration of the trial.
If a juror is chosen to serve on a case, he/she would remain for the entire day and each day thereafter until the trial is concluded (which is normally from one to three days).
The jurors who are not chosen to serve on a case are usually excused by mid-afternoon on Monday.
Their service is then complete.

Q:
Are Grand and Petit Jurors paid for service?

A:
Jurors will receive no pay for the first two days of service.
After the second day jurors will receive $50 per day, plus $0.07 per mile round trip from your residence to the Courthouse.
A correct mailing address is essential for payment.

Q:
Are excused absences allowed?

A:
If there is a reason why it would be difficult for you to serve then a written letter needs to be returned with your questionnaire.
The letter must contain both a request to be excused and the reason for the request.
Once the questionnaire and letter is received it will be reviewed by a Judge.
A postcard containing the Judge's decision will be mailed to you.

Jurors can always be deferred one time for pre-planned vacations, doctor appointments, and business trips during their period of jury service.

Q:
How can one verify jury service to an employer?

A:
If your employer requires verification of your service, you may request a card from the Courtroom Clerk for each day of service.

Q:
What shall be done with the juror summons/questionnaire?

A:
Please complete the questionnaire by typing or printing in a legible manner using BLACK ink, retain the top portion, and mail the questionnaire within ten days of receipt.
If you turn the questionnaire over you will see that it is addressed and postage is paid.
Just fold and tape the corners.
The first set of questions is Juror Qualification questions and the Personal History on the questionnaire is for the use of the attorneys in selecting jurors for particular cases.

Q:
Where do jurors appear for duty?

A:
Jurors will check in at the northeast counter (up the stairs and to the left) on the second floor of the James S. Rooney Justice Center and then enter the Jury Assembly Room.
The Jury Supervisor will meet with you there and direct you to a courtroom.
Courthouse security does not permit pocketknives, nail files, or any item that can be construed as a weapon on the premises.
Laptop and tablet computers are not allowed either.

Q:
Where do jurors phone for further information?

A:
Jurors who are summoned and have questions concerning their service may call the Jury Supervisor at 816-407-3998.

Contact Information

jury@circuit7.net

Jury Response Line: 816-407-3999

Individuals who are scheduled to report for Petit Jury should call this number the weekend before their appearance date.